Hudson Technologies, Inc. and the DC Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU) have launched a refrigerant recovery and reclamation (RR&R) pilot aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Washington, DC. The initiative, described as the first utility-sponsored program of its kind in the U.S., also seeks to create new revenue opportunities for local HVAC contractors.
Unlike conventional utility programs that focus on energy savings, this pilot rewards GHG reductions through refrigerant recovery. Contractors are trained by Hudson on recovery best practices, provided with certified storage containers, and supported with logistics and financial incentives. Hudson’s incentives are offered in addition to those provided by DCSEU.
The pilot supports DCSEU programs such as the Affordable Home Electrification Program (AHEP), which decommissions older HVAC systems. By reclaiming refrigerants during this process, the program helps prevent emissions from high global warming potential gases and supports a circular refrigerant economy.
“Hudson is proud to partner with the DCSEU in this first of a kind utility sponsored GHG emissions reduction pilot. According to the 2024 RMI report, refrigerant recovery, reclamation and reuse can result in 70% less emissions compared to using newly manufactured refrigerant,” said Kate Houghton, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing at Hudson.
“Our partnership with Hudson ensures that refrigerants are handled responsibly within the District and kept out of the atmosphere, directly aligning with the District’s climate action goals, while also supporting contractors to ensure that recovery is happening,” added Ben Burdick, Managing Director at DCSEU.